The Power of One
Name: Erin E. Ronan ’98 Hometown: North Merrick, N.Y.; currently resides in Rockville Centre, N.Y. Family: mother; father; two brothers; a sister-in-law; and a nephew What she did at Holy Cross: mathematics and economics double major; member of the College Honors Program; water polo; two-year member of the varsity swim team; Chapel Choir; Students for Life; Appalachia Service Project; Senior Show Current job: math teacher, swim coach and coordinator of college placement guidance at Kellenberg Memorial High School in Uniondale, N.Y. How she stays connected: “I keep in touch with my Holy Cross friends through e-mail—and even though most of my friends live in Massachusetts—we usually get together at least once a year for weddings and other special events.” The working life: “I love Kellenberg. In my 10 years there, I have taught grades nine-to-12; coached talented swimmers at the New York state swim meet; and guided seniors through the college selection process. I have chaperoned some amazing school trips, such as the USA Study Tour—a 50-day camping trip across the U.S. and its national parks. I had the opportunity to travel to Germany and Poland with 100 students from Kellenberg and nearby Chaminade High School to attend World Youth Day and see Pope Benedict XVI; and I started an Appalachia-type service trip for students with Holy Cross grad, Lee Imbriano ’03.” Memorable professors and moments at Holy Cross: “Even though I had never been in any of his classes, Professor (John) Little agreed to become my thesis adviser. He translated information about the mathematics of music that was in foreign languages, gave me ideas for sources, and guided me through the whole process. For that I am extremely grateful. Professors (Thomas) Gottschang, (John) Anderson, (Thomas) Cecil, and many other professors in the math and economics departments—and College Honors Program—were inspiring. Events that were memorable include: being able to attend Patriot League Championships during my freshman and sophomore years; traveling to Kentucky and Virginia through the Appalachia Service Project; and going on the Spiritual Exercises. These are life experiences that I will never forget.” Why she gives to Holy Cross: “My experience at Holy Cross helped shape the person I’ve become. I received an excellent education, had the opportunity to be involved in so many things, met people who still remain some of my closest friends, learned the importance of serving others, and had professors who have inspired me to become a better teacher. Holy Cross offered me everything I would hope for in a college experience and by giving back, I hope that I can help to provide that same opportunity for current and future students.”
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